DivergentDumpsterPhoenix

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 6 days ago to random

CAMHS: A legacy of pain

As I write this, our petition to try and trigger positive change in CAMHS for the way the treat Autistic children sits at around 212,000 signatures. That is not far off of a quarter of a million people for whom their systemic failures are more than a story or uncomfortable truth. For these people, myself, and others like us, these failures represent some of the darkest and most life-changing experiences that can happen.

https://emergentdivergence.com/2024/05/25/camhs-a-legacy-of-pain/

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 9 days ago to actuallyautistic

The following is a survey asking for the language preferences of Autistic and non-Autistic people regarding autism.

It is open to Autistic and non-Autistic people for the benefit of comparison.

I will also be using the preference results of Autistic people on the "neurodiversity: the basics" page of my website.

Please do fill this out and RT it, I would like to get at least 1000 responses.

Survey-
https://forms.gle/LM9gi4urTt15wkqn9

#AskingAutistics

@neurodiversity @actuallyautistic @autisticadvocacy

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 10 days ago to random

Interoception and Autism: A Hidden Link to Substance Use?

Autism and substance use is an area that received little discussion in wider society. In my own experience, their is an assumption that Autistic people are less likely to use drugs, however growing bodies of research are beginning to show what I have said for many year; substance use is a relevant discussion with regards to Autistic culture. Research has even suggested that Autistic people are nine times more…

https://emergentdivergence.com/2024/05/21/interoception-and-autism-a-hidden-link-to-substance-use/

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 12 days ago to random

CAMHS and the children who “won’t engage”

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) are notorious for failing to support Autistic children and young people. I have recently explored that Autistic families have a particularly difficult time accessing their services. One of the most common reactions from CAMHS professionals working with Autistic service users is that the child or young person "won't engage". This has become a stock response for any Autistic…

https://emergentdivergence.com/2024/05/19/camhs-and-the-children-who-wont-engage/

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 15 days ago to random

Challenging Mental Health Awareness Week for Autistic People

Mental Health Awareness Week leaves Autistic people feeling unheard and ignored. Despite years of advocating for better mental health support, Autistic individuals still face systemic barriers. This week should be more than just raising awareness – it's time to demand systemic change and meaningful support for the Autistic community.

https://emergentdivergence.com/2024/05/16/challenging-mental-health-awareness-week-for-autistic-people/

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 15 days ago to Autism

Please stop with the euphemisms. We know what we are, we don't need it explained to us. It is patronising when people try and define our identity for us.

#PersonFirstLanguage #IdentityFirstLanguage #ActuallyAutistic #autism #Autistic #neurodiversity #neurodivergent

@actuallyautistic @autisticadvocacy @neurodiversity @neurodivergent

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 16 days ago (edited 16 days ago) to random

CAMHS: The HEARTBREAKING Reality for Autistic Families

Autistic families face significant barriers when seeking support from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), with only 10% of patients being Autistic despite 70% of Autistic children experiencing mental health issues. The service lacks accessibility, attentiveness, and understanding of Autistic experience...

https://emergentdivergence.com/2024/05/15/camhs-the-heartbreaking-reality-for-autistic-families/

@neurodiversity @neurodivergent @actuallyautistic @autisticadvocacy

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 18 days ago to random

Autistic Lives Lost: Is CAMHS to Blame?

This article highlights the failure of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in providing appropriate support to Autistic children and young people, leading to devastating outcomes. The lack of resources, staff competence, and understanding of neurodivergent experiences contribute to the crisis. The system turning children away and the elevated risk of mortality among Autistic individuals are pressing concerns.

https://emergentdivergence.com/2024/05/13/autistic-lives-lost-is-camhs-to-blame/

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 23 days ago to random

Autistic burnout: How do you recover?

Autistic burnout is a unique struggle for each individual, impacting cognitive and physical resources. Recovery involves understanding personal needs, setting protective boundaries, avoiding excessive limitations, and allowing time for focused activities. Celebrating small victories and seeking mental health support are essential. Embracing change is crucial, as recovery is attainable with the support of the Autistic community.

https://emergentdivergence.com/2024/05/08/autistic-burnout-how-do-you-recover/

DivergentDumpsterPhoenix, 24 days ago to random

CAMHS and the loss of Jennifer (‘Jen’) Chalkley

The following article is a response to the findings that failures by Surrey and Borders Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) contributed to the death of a 17 yeard old Autistic and ADHD person.

https://emergentdivergence.com/2024/05/07/camhs-and-the-loss-of-jennifer-jen-chalkley/